85 Years of Being the Best New Hampshire Lake Resort

Climbing to the top of the New Hampshire lake resorts list hasn’t been an easy task. From the first time Jim and Fannie Salta sold bottled water and baked beans to travelers from their general store in the 1930s, to now, when guests can enjoy lakeside delectables from The NazBar & Grill or Blue Bistro, the love of hospitality has been inherited from generation to generation. Whether it be hurricanes, floods, recessions, or pandemics, NASWA Resort has stood triumphant in the face of adversity. 

Family Traditions at Lake Winnipesaukee

New Hampshire lake resorts are an excellent place to start family traditions and adventures. “We are so grateful that our guests have allowed us to be a part of their families’ memories,” said Cynthia Makris, operations manager. This is very fitting considering Cynthia is the granddaughter of the original owners and her mother, Hope Makris—the Matriarch of Hospitality in New Hampshire—is the current owner. So, NASWA Resort has established itself as a multi-generational business, but also serves as a multi-generational New Hampshire summer vacation destination. Many of NASWA’s “resident families” have been visiting the Lake Winnipesaukee resort since its inception. 

New Hampshire Summer Vacations

What started as nine cabins (five original open-air cabins and then four, two-bedroom cabins with screens were built later) across the street from the general store, has evolved into a spectacular New Hampshire lake resort on Lake Winnipesaukee. Although the nine original cottages are no longer there, the commitment to hospitality will forever be intact. After the Great New England Hurricane of 1938 destroyed the first nine cabins, “Papou” Jim decided to build 11. Today, there is a myriad of cottages, suites, or rooms to choose from at NASWA Resort.

As the demands of the travel industry grew, so did the operation. Since the early days, NASWA has continuously adapted to the needs of tourists. Docks, kayaks, and paddle boats eventually became staples, and casual and fine dining were added. Waterfront and lakeside buildings have proven to be excellent improvements to the resort and continue to draw visitors from all over the region. In addition to the many amenities, various feature activities and charitable events, like the Peter Makris Memorial Run, have contributed significantly to NASWA’s standing among New Hampshire lake resorts.

NASWA Resort on Lake Winnipesaukee 

What started as the Natural Spring Water Company has become the quintessential Lake Winnipesaukee resort. For 85 years, NASWA Resort has set the bar and defined what it means to have a passionate commitment to hospitality. As we continue to celebrate this momentous occasion, we invite you to find out why we’re among the best New Hampshire lake resorts by contacting us online or calling 888-55-NASWA. Since Jim and Fannie rented out the first cottage in 1935, many things have changed, but their philosophy remains timeless: Treat every guest like family.